Nelson G. Dockstader

Nelson G. Dockstader, 81, of the Town of Niagara, NY, passed from this life, suddenly, on Thursday, March 7, 2019 in Mount St. Mary’s Hospital.  Born on October 29, 1937 in Howard, NY, he was the son of the late Stanley and Ernestine (Pierce) Dockstader.  On April 6, 1974, Nelson married the former Barbara A. Britton.

Mr. Dockstader graduated from Avoca High School and earned his Bachelors Degree in Travel, Trade and Tourism from Niagara University. Following his education, Nelson began working on the railroad . He ended his career with CSX Transportation, retiring on October 1, 1999.  Throughout his career, Mr. Dockstader was the recipient of several awards for his service and dedication to safety. Nelson and Barbara were congregants of Grace Lutheran Church.  He was a member of the Niagara County Sportsmen’s Association and enjoyed hunting, fishing and boating.  Above all, Mr. Dockstader loved spending time with his grandchildren, who affectionally knew him as “papa.”

In addition to his beloved wife, Mr. Dockstader is survived by children, Mona (Timothy) Schmelzle, Mark (Dawn) Packer, Michael (Jennie Lee) Packer and Maxine (Jeff) Menshon; grandchildren, Jacob and Kyle Schmelzle, Kristina Packer and Kayla and Kelsey Menshon; siblings, Phyllis (late Lt. Col. William) Koenemann and Carl (Candice) Dockstader and several nieces, nephews and cousins.  In addition to his parents, Nelson was predeceased by a brother, Stanley A. (late Dee) Dockstader.

Visitation will be on Monday from 3-7 p.m. in the Chapel of OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY.  A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, March 12 at 11:00 a.m. in Grace Lutheran Church, with Pastor Benjamin Bahr officiating.  EVERYONE ASSEMBLE AT THE CHURCH.  Interment will follow in Niagara Falls Memorial Park Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Grace Lutheran Church, 736 Cayuga Drive, Niagara Falls, NY 14304.  Arrangements are under the direction of Michael R. Goodlander.  Please visit www.goodlandercares.com for online condolences. 

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